Social anxiety disorder

The key symptoms of this disorder are:

1. An extreme fear of social or performance situations in which a person may be scrutinized or evaluated by others.

2. Intense anxiety or avoidance resulting from fear of social or performance situations.

3. Intense anxiety in the form of a panic attack. Panic attacks include one or more of the following symptoms:

--A sense of imminent danger and an urge to escape;

--Racing or pounding heartbeat or chest pain;

--Trembling or shaking;

--Dizziness, lightheadedness;

--Nausea or abdominal distress;

--Difficulty breathing;

--Tingling or numbness in the hands;

--Flushes or chills, sweating;

--Sense of unreality or detachment;

--Fear of losing control, going "crazy" or doing something embarrassing.

Treatment for those who experience social anxiety disorder or panic attacks include help in recognizing and understanding these unreasonable fears, and gradually taking steps to deal with social situations. For some people, medication may be recommended to reduce anxiety. Contact a medical or mental health professional for more information and help in dealing with this disorder.

Contributed by Karen Beery, LCPC, Manage, Consultation and Education Department.

Mail questions to: High Plains Mental Health Center, Plain Sense, Consultation and Education Department, 208 East 7th, Hays, KS 67601; or visit www.highplainsmentalhealth.com.

Date: 4/17/06

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